2011 Kia Optima Sedan

2011 Kia Optima Sedan

Benefits of Driving a 2011 Kia Optima Sedan

Altogether, the Optima is one of the sportiest-feeling mid-size sedans in its base configuration, while the Turbo model promises the acceleration and responsiveness of rival V6 models but with true 4-cylinder fuel economy--22 mpg city and 34 highway, by EPA estimates. It fits Kia's tradition of packing more features and value into their vehicles at the same price as lesser-equipped rival models while actually forging a beautiful new design direction.

What's new for 2011?

With a stylish new design inside and out along with all-new powertrains and slightly larger all around, the Kia Optima is all-new and completely redesigned for 2011. Later in the model year, the Kia Optima lineup will be joined by a new Optima Turbo model, as well as a new Optima Hybrid. The latter will be Kia's first-ever hybrid.

Model Strengths

Stylish new design

roomy interior

excellent gas mileage, even with turbo

steering and handling

extensive standard features

strong resale value

long warranty

Model Review

The Optima is entirely new for 2011, a bit larger than the model it replaces and showcasing a dramatic new design that's been led by Kia's new Soul and Forte small cars. The Optima shows off the brand's European-influenced style, with crisp but flowing lines and a chrome-tipped dual exhaust on all models.

2011 Kia Optima Sedan

2011 Kia Optima Sedan

Safety Ratings

What do the Safety Ratings mean?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) performs independent crash testing of new vehicles and then assigns them a score based on their performance. The overall crash test rating is based on how a vehicle performs in the following tests:

Driver Crash Grade:

Measures the chance of a serious injury to a crash test dummy that is placed in a driver's seat and driven into a fixed barrier at 35 MPH. A five-star rating means there is 10 percent or less chance of injury.

Passenger Crash Grade:

Similar to the driver crash grade, only now the focus is on the passenger.

Rollover Resistance:

Simulates an emergency lane change to measure the likelihood of a vehicle rolling over. A five-star rating means there is 10 percent or less risk of rollover.

Side Impact Crash Test - Front:

Focuses on the front side of a vehicle. It simulates crashes that can occur in intersections by striking a 3,015-pound weight against the side of a vehicle at 38.5 MPH. A five-star rating means there is 5 percent or less chance of injury.

Side Impact Crash Test - Rear:

Similar to the front side impact test only now the focus is on the rear passenger.